Author: Dom Stevens

200 young people supported by Careers Made in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is investing in the future of its workforce through the continued success of the Careers Made in Chesterfield (CMiC) programme, a key part of the borough’s Skills Action Plan.

Funded by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), this year’s initiative has engaged over 200 young people through hands-on workshops and real-world work experience.

Now in its second year, CMiC is helping to build a stronger local talent pipeline by connecting students with employers across Chesterfield’s key growth sectors. The programme has delivered 20 work experience placements and reached 214 students through interactive, sector-themed workshops.

“CMiC introduces students to a broad range of career opportunities within Chesterfield’s key growth sectors,” said Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at DEBP. “In year one, we focused on Property and Construction. Now in year two, we’ve expanded to include Health, Science and Social Care, and Engineering and Manufacturing.

Workshops were delivered at Parkside Community School, Springwell Community College, and Whittington Green School. Students worked in teams to tackle a simulated flooding emergency, designing flood prevention measures and planning a temporary hospital. The challenge encouraged them to explore transferable skills and career pathways across multiple sectors.

A student from Whittington Green School shared: “The best part was working with friends to create something that may help in the future.”

Students also took part in employer site visits, gaining valuable insight into local industries:

  • Springwell students visited Triton Construction at Staveley Canal Basin.
  • Chesterfield Youth Hub customers toured United Cast Bar and Thomas Bow City Asphalt, with one participant securing an apprenticeship.
  • Ashgate Croft students visited Stepnell at Spire Lodge and Thomas Bow City Asphalt at Chesterfield Market Place.

“The students thought their visit was interesting, learning about Thomas Bow’s company history and seeing the builders in action,” said Vicky Bridge, Gateway 1 Teacher at Ashgate Croft School. “They go to Chesterfield town centre every week, so it was great to see the progress on the market renovation.”

Fifteen local employers have supported CMiC this year, including: EcoTech Engineers Ltd, Environment Agency, Fortem, Frank Shaw Associates, Jackson Civil Engineering, Met Office, MSE Hiller, O’Brien Construction Ltd, Rodgers Leask Limited Consulting Engineers, Stepnell, Thomas Bow City Asphalt, Tim Jones Consulting, Triton Construction, and United Cast Bar.

Support has also come from Chesterfield College, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Derby.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield programme has had another successful year. The interactive workshops and work experience opportunities are an excellent way of young people gaining knowledge about local businesses and provide inspiration in terms of future career paths that could be followed.

“By working with employers, we can ensure that skills provision in the borough meets their future needs. I look forward to seeing how this programme continues to progress and hearing from young people about how it has helped them.”

Careers Made in Chesterfield is a vital part of Chesterfield’s long-term vision to ensure local people have the skills needed to thrive in the borough’s evolving economy. Businesses play a crucial role in this mission.

Employers interested in supporting the next generation – whether through site visits, mentoring, or work experience – are encouraged to get in touch with DEBP at enquiries@debp.org.

If you are a business and would like to receive regular email updates on initiatives to support careers guidance and advice, you can sign up here.

DEBP, Ecotech Engineers, Forem, Frank Shaw Associates, MSE Hiller, Rodgers Leask, Stepnall, United Cast Bar, Chesterfield College and the University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Classic car getaway launches at Peak Edge Hotel

Visitors to Chesterfield and the Peak District can now experience the thrill of the open road in true style, thanks to a new luxury getaway launched by the award-winning Peak Edge Hotel.

The Luxury Classic Car Getaway for Two invites guests to explore one of Britain’s most scenic regions behind the wheel of a vintage 1995 MG RV8 or a sleek Aston Martin DB9.  Both were handpicked from the personal collection of hotel owner and former rally champion Steve Perez.

“This is more than just a hotel package, it’s a personal invitation to experience the Peak District through the eyes of our owner, Steve Perez,” said Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel. “As a passionate car collector and former rally champion, Steve has handpicked two of his most loved vehicles to share with guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking adventure, this getaway blends heritage, horsepower, and hospitality in a way that’s completely unique to Peak Edge.”

MG parked in the Peak District.

A Countryside Escape Like No Other

Starting from £400 per couple, the package includes:

  • A two-night stay in a Superior Double or Twin Room with breakfast
  • Private hire of either the MG RV8 or Aston Martin DB9
  • A complimentary bottle of Prosecco on arrival
  • 10% off the à la carte menu at the 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant
  • Exclusive scenic route recommendations through the Peak District

Guests can also enhance their stay with the Peaks & Plates experience, a gourmet countryside add-on featuring a luxury picnic hamper filled with produce from Walton Lodge Farm, and a six-course tasting menu crafted by Head Chef Alan Rigby.

open picnic basket on picnic rug.

Explore, Taste and Drive

Curated driving routes include:

  • Snake Pass and Winnats Pass
  • Derwent Dams and Ladybower Reservoir
  • Monsal Head to Longstone Edge
  • Visits to Chatsworth, Haddon Hall, Bakewell, and the Heights of Abraham

After a day of exploring, enjoy a relaxed yet refined dining experience at the Red Lion Restaurant, where seasonal menus showcase the best local produce.

Bookings are now open at peakedgehotel.co.uk/classic-car-luxury-getaway

For more inspiration and to plan your visit to Chesterfield and the Peak District, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Celebrating community, nature and giving back

From supporting local charities to protecting green spaces, people across Chesterfield are working together to make a positive impact.  This month’s round-up highlights a few of the Chesterfield Champions’ inspiring efforts to support our communities.

A Sea of Remembrance at Chatsworth

This spring, Ashgate Hospice’s Dragonfly Appeal brought a moving tribute to the grounds of Chatsworth House. Over 2,500 handcrafted steel dragonflies, created by local sculptor James Sutton, were dedicated in memory of loved ones. The installation, which ran until 22 May, offered families a chance to reflect, remember, and support the hospice’s vital work.

Among those taking part was Barry Hancock, 81, from Brimington, who dedicated a dragonfly in memory of his wife Sue. “Being at the hospice felt like home,” Barry shared. “One of Sue’s favourite moments was being wheeled out to the garden — her face lit up.”

The appeal, supported by Graysons Solicitors, helps Ashgate raise essential funds, with only 31% of its income coming from the NHS.

Supporting Charity Trustees Nationwide

BHP Chartered Accountants is marking a major milestone, supporting over 1,500 charity trustees through its free training programme. Launched in 2015, the initiative was created to fill a gap in support for those giving their time and expertise to the third sector.

This year’s programme was the most successful yet, with over 200 attendees joining practical webinars from across the UK. Laura Masheder, Partner at BHP, said: “Trustees are vital to the success of charities, and we’re proud to help them thrive.”

Planning for Nature’s Future

Chesterfield is also taking bold steps in nature recovery, thanks to a growing partnership between Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT) and Chesterfield Borough Council. At the recent Climate Change Forum, DWT shared insights from the new Plan for Nature — a roadmap for rewilding and sustainable development in the borough.

Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, said:
“The council already considers protecting wildlife to be a priority in our planning process and general development. We have well-considered systems in place for the management of our wide variety of open spaces, which ensure we don’t disturb habitats unnecessarily. In the last three years, we have planted 14,000 trees, with 6,000 of those being in the last year. Everything that grows has a role to play in our fight against climate change.”

The forum, which includes 38 community representatives, continues to grow as a space for sharing ideas and shaping local action. With strong collaboration between residents, local groups, and the council, Chesterfield is showing how people, places, and the planet can thrive together.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

New artwork created by patients for patients

A stunning art display has been created by patients with acute mental health needs to help enhance mental health and wellbeing to support with social connection.

Located at ‘The Hive’ – a communal space, located at the Derwent Unit in Chesterfield, the hand-crafted art display of a mosaic tree and tiled wall was co-created by patients on the unit, the Recreational Activity Team, and designed by Rosanna Scrase, Artist and Recreation Worker. The artwork was created at the Hartington Unit, also at the Chesterfield site, before patients relocated to the Derwent Unit in March 2025.

The mosaic is composed of hundreds of hand-crafted clay tiles. Each tile has been made by patients at various stages of their recovery, with the Recreation Team offering guidance and support throughout the process. Embedded within the bark of the tree are positive words and phrases chosen by the patients.

Rosanna Scrase, Artist and Recreation Worker at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The image of the mosaic features a tree and a beehive. The tree symbolises growth, resilience, and strength, reflecting the personal journeys of the patients. The beehive represents community and collaboration between patients and staff, embodying a holistic approach to recovery.

“This artwork stands as a powerful testament to the healing potential of creativity and the strength found in shared experiences.”

The vibrant artwork celebrates the opening of the new Derwent Unit – a new 54-bed mental health unit for patients who now each have their own en-suite bedroom and can benefit from modern, therapeutic facilities, supporting their patient journey and mental ill health.

Jessica Galley, Recreation Coordinator at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’ve seen first-hand how creative projects like the Tree Mosaic can uplift our patients, particularly through meaningful and engaging activities.

“This offers a natural and effective way to reduce stress and promote wellbeing among patients. It provides patients with a sense of purpose, a chance to express themselves, and a way to connect with others during their recovery.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

Luxury interiors company is fourth tenant announced for Elder Way

Hot on the heels of luxury hair salon Feather & Fern opening its doors, Elder Way is set to welcome its fourth tenant – boutique, high-end kitchen and interiors business, OTI Interiors.

The design-led business has signed a five-year lease on Unit 1A, a 1,109 sq. ft space located next door to Feather & Fern on Knifesmithgate.

OTI Interiors was founded during the Covid-19 lockdown by local entrepreneur Gavin Grainger, who also owns the award-winning restaurant and bar Bottle & Thyme, located in the prominent corner unit at Elder Way.

Seeking to diversify during the pandemic, and drawing on his background in design, Gavin launched OTI as an interiors business which specialises in bespoke, handcrafted kitchens. The company produces only a limited number of commissions each year, typically fewer than 25, which are hand-built in Chesterfield.

The new Elder Way unit will serve as OTI’s first dedicated showroom away from the firm’s small industrial space in Chesterfield, where all furniture is made.

The new unit will be used as OTI’s customer-facing meeting point, featuring a consultation area where clients can enjoy a glass of Champagne. In addition to meeting space, the showroom will also host an extensive range of samples, including tiles. It will also host events and demonstrations in partnership with local businesses, including estate agents, florists, and chefs.

The unit is currently undergoing a full fit-out and is expected to open to the public in late summer.

Gavin Grainger said: “We love being based at Elder Way. It’s been the ideal premises and location for Bottle & Thyme, with strong footfall and neighbouring businesses that align with our brand. Creating a showroom for OTI here made absolute sense.

“The unit is a blank canvas with beautiful natural light, perfect for showcasing our products. OTI’s design style has been on display at Bottle & Thyme for the past year, and we often receive compliments. Now I’m excited to bring that same look to the high street and make it more accessible for people to have in their own homes.”

In addition to Bottle & Thyme and Feather & Fern, OTI Interiors will also join HotPod Yoga as ground-floor tenants of the former iconic Co-op department store, a landmark building in Chesterfield.

The letting of OTI Interiors now leaves just four units available at the iconic leisure development in the heart of Chesterfield town centre.

The 1930s Mock Tudor building has been thoughtfully reimagined and redeveloped by regeneration specialists Jomast, creating eight prime street-level units that blend heritage architecture with modern retail potential.

Located in the heart of the town, Elder Way has established itself as a go-to destination for independent businesses and vibrant customer experiences.

The upper floors of the development are occupied by Premier Inn Chesterfield, recently named the best hotel in the brand’s entire UK portfolio, further cementing Elder Way’s position as a high-quality, mixed-use destination.

Mark Hill, Commercial Property Director at Jomast, commented: “Gavin’s success with Bottle & Thyme has clearly demonstrated the potential of Elder Way as a destination for creative, independent businesses. We’re thrilled to welcome OTI Interiors, a high-quality, design-focused brand that fits perfectly with our vision for a vibrant, experience-led town centre. With just four units remaining, interest from prospective tenants remains strong, and we look forward to announcing more exciting lettings soon.”

Bottle & Thyme has been a standout success since relocating to Elder Way, tripling the size of the business and establishing itself as a cornerstone of the site’s independent offering.

With the arrival of OTI Interiors, Elder Way continues to build its reputation as a dynamic and desirable destination for innovative retailers, creators, and service providers.

For enquiries or further information about the remaining units at Elder Way visit www.elderway.co.uk or contact the development’s agents WSB Property on 0113 234 1444.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Planning granted for 275 home development in Duckmanton

Housebuilder Honey will build 275 new homes in Duckmanton after being granted planning permission for a £78m development.

Called Pearl and located on Tom Lane, the development will comprise a mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, including terraces, semi-detached and detached properties.

The 41-acre site has been allocated for development by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Chesterfield local plan to deliver 4080 homes by 2035.

Work is anticipated to start this summer, with the first homes expected to be occupied by Summer 2026.

Pearl will feature 18 of Honey’s different house types, including terrace, semi-detached and detached properties. Prices at the development will start from £229,995.

Honey chief executive officer, Mark Mitchell, commented: “Our Pearl development will deliver design-led homes that are perfect for modern-day living for buyers looking to move in or to Duckmanton.

“There has already been huge interest in Pearl since we announced our plans, so we now look forward to releasing the first homes for sale later this year at this thriving new community we are creating.”

Chesterfield was recently named in a list of Britain’s happiest places to live by the national newspaper, The Guardian.

The article highlights Chesterfield’s access to open spaces as one of its major advantages, stating: “Chesterfield sits on the edge of the Peak District and is home to one of the oldest open-air markets in England, as well as historic medieval alleyways, churches, museums and grand old buildings. Its blend of urban and rural access (being just a short journey from both the Peak District National Park, and Sheffield and Derby) makes it a popular place to live.”

Discover more about living in Chesterfield.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

New artwork to premiere at Chesterfield Children’s Festival

This summer, a new artwork encouraging families to play, explore, and connect in fun will premiere at the Chesterfield Children’s Festival.

Commissioned by Junction Arts and First Art, the Post Office of Possibilities is an interactive art installation that blends street theatre and community engagement.

The piece will premiere at the Chesterfield Children’s Festival.  The festival is a free, family-friendly celebration of arts and culture for children aged 0–16.  The festival is in Queen’s Park from 26–27 July 2025.

Crowds of families gather in circle to watch dance performance at festival

Created by outdoor theatre specialists, the Babbling Vagabonds, in collaboration with young people from Boza Youth, the Post Office of Possibilities is based on the classic British post office.  It will be packed with hands-on features brimming with surprises. Visitors will be invited to pen postcards of positivity and letters to their future selves, with playful prompts that spark conversations around hope, wellbeing, aspirations, and what it means to live a good life.

Colourful, costumed characters from the “Department of Dreams” will roam the festivals, animating the space with skits, games and interactive encounters.

Phil Coggins from The Babbling Vagabonds said: “The Department of Dreams and their Post Office of Possibilities is here to deliver joy, curiosity, and connection. This pop-up show will blend playful performance with hands-on creativity. We want to reignite the joy of slow, tangible, human connection in an increasingly digital world.”

Young people from Bolsover will shape the new artwork. The Babbling Vagabonds will work closely with Boza Youth, Bolsover’s volunteer-run youth club for 11–17-year-olds, over the coming months to co-create the piece.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said: “The young people were instrumental in selecting The Babbling Vagabonds and shaping the project. They wanted something that spoke to their age group — something fun, creative, and inspiring. The Post Office of Possibility is all that and more: a space for positive expression and joyful interaction.”

Discover more about the Chesterfield Children’s Festival

Find more ideas to keep the family entertained this Summer in Chesterfield.

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in Business, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

New store opens in Chesterfield Town Centre

A new Cash Converters store has opened in a vacant unit in Chesterfield Town Centre.

Situated at the corner of Packers Row and The Shambles, the newly opened store occupies a prime pedestrianised location just off Chesterfield’s Market Place and High Street.

Chesterfield Champions’ Banner Jones Solicitors advised Loljack Ltd, a franchisee of Cash Converters UK brand, on the acquisition and successful letting of a prominent retail unit in Chesterfield town centre.

Phillip Rogers of Loljack Ltd said: “We’re really pleased to have secured such a well-positioned site in the heart of Chesterfield. The town has a great atmosphere and a thriving retail mix, and we’re excited to be part of it.

Ben Couch, Commercial Property Solicitor at Banner Jones, commented:

“We were delighted to advise Loljack Ltd on this acquisition. This is a prime retail asset in a central location, and the opening of a new Cash Converters franchise reflects growing confidence in the town centre.

This latest announcement follows a range of investments and openings in Chesterfield town centre recently, which include:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield Town Centre

Banner Jones supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in Business, Development, Home

Discover the great outdoors in Chesterfield

Destination Chesterfield board member, Ann Fomukong-Boden explores Chesterfield’s outdoor spaces

Earlier this year, a businesswoman shared something about her experience of Chesterfield that stuck with me… and now I want to share it with you.  

Catherine had moved up from the south a few years ago and couldn’t believe how easily she’d swapped congestion for countryside, and how the sense of community wrapped around her like a welcome hug. 

It reminded me that we don’t just live near to beauty here in Chesterfield — we live amongst it. 

As summer rolls in, I’m grabbing every chance to get outside with my family. Here’s a fun fact for you to tell your friends… Chesterfield has more than 400 hectares of open space to explore – that’s around 500 football pitches! 

We’ve made a habit of packing up a picnic, chasing dragonflies through Holmebrook Valley Park, and seeing who can spot the first duckling on the water. After all that exploring, we usually settle down at the café for a well-earned bun and a coffee — the kind of simple treat that tastes better with muddy shoes and rosy cheeks. 

Queen’s Park, just a stone’s throw from town, bursts into life in the sun. Walkers pass through on their way into town, the familiar crack of a cricket bat occasionally cuts through the tranquillity. Families and friends stretch out on blankets, watching clouds shift. It’s not just green space – it’s breathing space.  

One Sunday, I spotted someone paddleboarding along Chesterfield Canal. My two-year old daughter’s eyes lit up. “Look, look, try!” she shouted. I already envision myself in future years trying to keep up with her and falling off! 

When I head out for an early walk, birdsong replaces my morning podcast. Nature wakes the town slowly — leaves rustle, and sunlight filters through a canopy of green. These moments don’t just reset my mood; they remind me why we chose to raise a family here. 

This summer, we want to enjoy many car-free adventures – swapping wheels for walking boots or bikes. If you’re planning your own summer days out, Chesterfield is full of inspiration. Think paddling in a stream, chasing a Frisbee through open fields, or stumbling across a band playing in the park. 

Living in Chesterfield means never needing to escape to find peace. The peace is already here — in the calmness of the canal, the buzz of bees, and the wind rushing through the trees. 

So, step outside. Kick off your shoes. Let your shoulders drop. Summer’s waiting. And if you’re stuck for ideas? You’ll find plenty of inspiration — including dog-friendly and car-free days out — on our Summer in Chesterfield pages: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Half term, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Successful events raise the profile of apprenticeships in Chesterfield

Hundreds of young people have had a chance to find out more about the world of work, thanks to connecting directly with employers at events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council.

So far, this academic year, the Apprenticeship and T Level information events have led to a number of young people enrolling on courses at the Construction Skills Hub with Chesterfield College or being employed as an apprentice.

Anyone who missed out on the last event in May event is invited to come along to the next session in October, more information will be shared about this closer to the time, but there are also a range of apprenticeship opportunities which people can explore online.

The Apprenticeship and T Level information events are designed to help young people and their parents and carers to learn more about apprenticeships and educational opportunities available in Chesterfield. They are specifically for students who are leaving school and want to connect with local employers to find what skills or qualifications they need to pursue their future career.

The focus of these events has been the construction, manufacturing and engineering and health and social care sectors, which are all prominent sectors in the borough with lots of local opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We have seen a lot of young people, and their parents and carers come along to these events over the last year, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future as well as reassuring parents and carers about the opportunities available to their child.

“Apprenticeships allow you to learn on the job, gain experience and knowledge that will all benefit you in your future career.  Working in partnership with East Midlands Combined County Authority Careers Hub, the ASK programme and local businesses is crucial to ensuring that the information provided at the events is current and relevant to people in Chesterfield and ensure that opportunities are available to school leavers.”

Currently there are 60 apprenticeships available within a 10-mile radius of Chesterfield through the find an apprenticeship service. Learn more about the opportunities here: www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, portfolio lead for Skills and Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority, said: “The East Midlands is leading the way in innovation, and we’re committed to making sure our businesses have the skills and support they need to drive future growth. Apprenticeships play a vital role in this – they offer a practical, hands-on route for people to build careers and for employers to grow the talent they need. By investing in local talent through apprenticeships, we can tackle skills shortages, create high-quality jobs and build a stronger, more inclusive economy. This is a real opportunity for employers to help shape the future workforce – I’d encourage businesses to join the conference and explore what’s ahead.”

A range of employers have attended the Apprenticeship and T Level information events so far this year including Frank Shaw Associates, Chesterfield Royal Hospital , Eyesite View, Stepnell, University of Derby, DANCOP, Nottingham Trent University, Joined Up Careers, United Cast Bar, local engineering firm MSE Hiller as well as Chesterfield College who offer a variety of courses to get young people workplace ready.

Details about the next Apprenticeship and T Level information event will be shared on both the Chesterfield Borough Council website and social media pages ahead of the October event.

Chesterfield is the UK’s first Apprentice Town – where apprenticeships are at the heart of many local businesses. 

Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining qualifications whilst getting real life experience in the world of world and being paid for it.

Frank Shaw Associates, Chesterfield Royal Hospital , Eyesite View, Stepnell, University of Derby, United Cast Bar, MSE Hiller and Chesterfield College support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

East Midlands transport investment to move forward the Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route

The East Midlands will benefit from the largest transport investment in a generation, as East Midlands Mayor Clare Ward secures up to £2 billion through the Government’s new ‘Transport for City Regions Fund’.

This funding will be used to deliver a modern, reliable, and integrated transport system across the region, with a particular focus on reducing congestion and improving connectivity between areas that have little or no transport provision at all.

Pan-regional projects to be taken forward will include:

Chesterfield-Staveley Regeneration Route (CSRR)
This will open the Canal Corridor, enabling regeneration in North Derbyshire and beyond. The scheme is expected to create 8,000 jobs, 4,000 homes, and add £500 million by unlocking growth across the East Midlands and connecting into South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

The Trent Arc
The development of a large-scale public transport system linking Derby and Nottingham, strengthening the Trent Arc corridor, a key growth zone for the region.

The Trent Arc is one of the East Midlands’ most immediate and investable opportunities. Spanning two cities, the Freeport, and sites like Infinity Park Investment Zone and Ratcliffe-on-Soar, it will deliver 40,000 new jobs, 30,000 homes, and contribute £2.4 billion to the UK economy.

This funding will support improved rail, road and bus connections throughout the corridor, including access to the East Midlands Freeport and the East Midlands Intermodal Park, home to major employers like Toyota.

A614/A6097 Improvements (North Nottinghamshire)
These road upgrades will connect ex-coalfield towns and villages to national logistics networks, reduce congestion, and drive economic renewal in some of the region’s most deprived areas, while supporting one of its most important industries: freight and logistics.

The agreement, which is for five years and follows extensive negotiations with the Government, will act as the launchpad for a major renewal in the region’s fortunes.

As transport and infrastructure are both critical enablers of growth, this programme has the potential to unlock 100,000 new jobs, deliver 52,000 homes, and generate a £4.6 billion boost to the UK economy.

Crucially, it’ll connect more people to jobs, skills, education and places that matter most. It builds on the Mayor’s vision to build a transport system that meets the needs of today while laying the foundations for a more connected, prosperous East Midlands.

This funding represents precisely how the Mayor and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) are working in partnership with Government and local stakeholders to secure investment and build new opportunities that were not possible before now.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This is the largest transport investment our region has seen in a generation.”

“As Mayor of the East Midlands, one of my most important responsibilities is to ensure that Government sees this region through the eyes of those who live, work, and travel here, and to make sure we are treated as a national priority. Today’s announcement is the clearest sign yet that this approach is working.”

“This is the moment we begin to put right decades of underinvestment. From everyday frustrations to major barriers to growth, poor transport has held our region back for too long. Whether you’re a student weighing up college options, a small business struggling to recruit, or a visitor-facing venue trying to grow footfall, I know what happens when transport doesn’t work. Fixing it will be central to my Transport Plan, and now we have the resources to deliver real, tangible change.”

“We’re getting to work straight away. That means strengthening the rail, road and bus links between Derby and Nottingham, the vital Trent Arc. It means delivering long-overdue projects like the Chesterfield-Staveley Relief Route and finally addressing congestion pinch points like the A614/A6097 in north Nottinghamshire.

“I look forward to working with partners across the East Midlands to deliver these improvements. Better transport doesn’t just move people. It powers opportunity, unlocks growth, and connects us to a better future.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said “Today marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.

“For too long, people in the Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of Government investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction